The Ibanez RG655M Prestige Cobalt Blue Metallic is a professional-grade Japanese-built electric guitar that combines legendary RG performance with striking custom aesthetics. Manufactured at Ibanez's renowned Fujigen factory in Japan, the RG655M delivers the fast playability, precision engineering and versatile tone that have made the Prestige Series a favourite among serious guitarists worldwide.

This particular example stands out thanks to its upgraded blue metallic pickguard and matching blue metallic truss rod cover, creating a unique visual identity that complements the factory Cobalt Blue Metallic finish. The result is a guitar that looks every bit as impressive as it sounds, offering a more customised appearance while retaining the high-end specifications expected from a Prestige instrument.

Featuring DiMarzio pickups, a Super Wizard HP maple neck and the acclaimed Edge locking tremolo system, the RG655M is equally at home playing technical metal, progressive rock, fusion, shred, hard rock and modern session work.

Whether you're looking for a premium Japanese-built Ibanez, a professional touring instrument or a standout addition to your collection, the RG655M Prestige remains one of the most respected superstrat guitars available.

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Why Choose The Ibanez RG655M Prestige?

Japanese Prestige Build Quality

The Prestige Series represents some of the finest production guitars Ibanez manufactures.

Built in Japan by highly skilled craftsmen, the RG655M benefits from exceptional attention to detail, precise fretwork and consistently high manufacturing standards that have earned Prestige instruments a world-class reputation.

Fast Super Wizard HP Neck

The five-piece maple and walnut Super Wizard HP neck is designed for speed, accuracy and comfort.

Its slim profile makes complex lead passages, technical riffs and extended practice sessions feel effortless while maintaining excellent stability.

Professional DiMarzio Pickup Configuration

The HSH pickup layout combines DiMarzio Air Norton, True Velvet and Tone Zone pickups to provide an incredibly versatile tonal palette.

Players can access everything from sparkling cleans and glassy single-coil tones to thick rhythm sounds and articulate high-gain leads.

Legendary Edge Tremolo System

Widely regarded as one of the finest locking tremolo systems ever produced, the Ibanez Edge bridge offers exceptional tuning stability, smooth operation and expressive vibrato capability.

Whether performing subtle pitch modulation or extreme divebombs, the bridge remains remarkably reliable.

Distinctive Custom Appearance

The upgraded metallic blue pickguard and matching truss rod cover give this RG655M a unique appearance that sets it apart from standard examples.

For players who want something a little different without compromising originality or performance, these tasteful cosmetic upgrades add extra visual appeal.

Built For Modern Performance

From progressive metal and fusion through to rock, session work and instrumental guitar music, the RG655M is designed to handle demanding modern playing styles with ease.

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Why Choose A Prestige Series Ibanez?

Many guitarists eventually reach a point where they want more precision, reliability and consistency from their instrument.

A Prestige Series guitar offers:

• Japanese craftsmanship

• Premium hardware

• Superior fretwork

• Professional-grade pickups

• Outstanding tuning stability

• Exceptional playability

• Long-term reliability

For serious players, Prestige instruments are often viewed as the benchmark for modern performance-focused electric guitars.

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Who Is It For?

Beginners

While beginners can certainly learn on an RG655M, its specification and professional-level features are often best appreciated by more experienced players.

Intermediate Players

An outstanding upgrade for players looking to move into professional-grade instruments with premium hardware and significantly enhanced performance.

Advanced / Professional Players

This is where the RG655M truly excels. Touring musicians, recording artists and technical players will appreciate the precision, reliability and versatility offered by the Prestige platform.

Particularly Recommended For

• Shred guitarists

• Progressive metal players

• Fusion musicians

• Hard rock guitarists

• Technical metal players

• Instrumental guitarists

• Session musicians

• Home studio players

• Touring professionals

• Modern rock players

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Product Story / Background / Heritage

The Ibanez RG platform evolved from the famous JEM guitars developed alongside Steve Vai during the late 1980s. Over time, the RG became one of the most successful superstrat designs ever produced, gaining popularity among players seeking fast necks, versatile electronics and advanced tremolo systems.

The Prestige Series was introduced to showcase the very best of Ibanez's Japanese manufacturing expertise, offering premium specifications and craftsmanship aimed at serious musicians.

The RG655M continues this tradition, combining classic RG styling with professional-grade components and the modern performance features that have made the Prestige name synonymous with quality.

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Associated Artists / Songs / Performances

While the RG655M itself is not a signature model, Prestige RG guitars are closely associated with many players in the modern rock and metal world.

Ibanez RG-style instruments have been used by artists including:

• Steve Vai

• Paul Gilbert

• Andy Timmons

• Herman Li

• Sam Totman

• Nita Strauss

• Jake Bowen

The RG platform remains one of the most popular choices for technically demanding guitar styles.

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Product Comparisons

Ibanez RG655M Prestige vs Ibanez Genesis RG550

The RG550 offers classic late-'80s RG specifications and vintage appeal.

The RG655M provides upgraded DiMarzio pickups, Prestige craftsmanship and a more refined professional feel.

Choose the RG655M for premium performance and versatility.

Ibanez RG655M Prestige vs Ibanez AZ2402 Prestige

The AZ2402 offers a more traditional feel with broader stylistic flexibility.

The RG655M focuses more heavily on speed, technical playing and modern rock performance.

Choose the RG655M if fast necks and high-performance playing are your priorities.

Ibanez RG655M Prestige vs Charvel Pro-Mod DK24

Both are versatile modern superstrats.

The RG655M offers Japanese Prestige craftsmanship and the renowned Edge tremolo system.

Choose the RG655M if tremolo performance and shred-focused playability are important.

Ibanez RG655M Prestige vs Suhr Modern

The Suhr offers boutique-level refinement and premium pricing.

The RG655M delivers many professional-level features at a significantly more accessible price point.

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Why Guitarists Love The Ibanez Edge Tremolo System

Many players consider the original Ibanez Edge tremolo to be one of the finest double-locking systems ever made.

Benefits include:

• Exceptional tuning stability

• Smooth action

• Excellent sustain

• Reliable intonation

• Comfortable hand feel

• Long-term durability

For players who rely on tremolo techniques, the Edge system remains one of the strongest selling points of Prestige RG models.

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Looking For Advice?

Looking for advice on choosing the right Ibanez Prestige guitar, shred guitar, superstrat or professional performance instrument? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

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Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Name	Ibanez RG655M Prestige
Type	Solid Body Electric Guitar
Series	Prestige
Body Material	Basswood
Finish	Cobalt Blue Metallic
Neck Material	5-Piece Maple/Walnut
Neck Profile	Super Wizard HP
Fingerboard	Maple
Fingerboard Radius	430mm
Scale Length	25.5" (648mm)
Frets	24 Jumbo with Prestige Fret Edge Treatment
Nut	Locking Nut
Pickups	DiMarzio Air Norton (Neck), True Velvet (Middle), Tone Zone (Bridge)
Pickup Configuration	HSH
Controls	Master Volume, Master Tone
Switching	5-Way Blade Switch
Bridge	Ibanez Edge Tremolo
Tuners	Gotoh
Orientation	Right Handed
Country of Manufacture	Japan
Modifications	Blue Metallic Pickguard, Matching Blue Metallic Truss Rod Cover

 

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Power Requirements

No external power supply required.

The Ibanez RG655M uses passive pickups and requires no batteries, charging or external power source.

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Pairs Perfectly With

Complete your RG655M Prestige setup with:

• Premium Instrument Cable

• Boss Katana Artist Amplifier

• Victory Kraken Amplifier

• Neural DSP Quad Cortex

• Line 6 HX Stomp

• Dunlop Strap Locks

• D'Addario NYXL Strings

• Clip-On Tuner

• Guitar Maintenance Kit

• Studio Audio Interface

• Selected Pre-Owned High-Gain Amplifiers

• Fair Deal Music Accessories and Guitar Care Products

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Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Fair Deal Music is a family-run independent music retailer that has been serving musicians since 1987. As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we pride ourselves on offering expert advice, competitive pricing and outstanding customer service.

With over 6,000 Excellent 4.9-star Trustpilot reviews, musicians across the UK trust Fair Deal Music for guitars, amplifiers, effects and professional advice.

Our knowledgeable team is available by phone, online and in-store to help before and after your purchase. We offer fast UK delivery, secure online ordering and a fully stocked Birmingham showroom where you can try a huge range of instruments.

We also buy and sell pre-owned gear, with quality used guitars, amplifiers and effects available both online and in-store.

Whether you're searching for a professional-level shred machine, a Japanese-built Prestige model or a versatile recording and touring guitar, our guitar specialists can help you find the perfect setup.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ibanez RG655M Prestige made in Japan?

Yes. The RG655M Prestige is manufactured in Japan as part of Ibanez's premium Prestige Series.

What pickups does the RG655M use?

It features a DiMarzio Air Norton neck pickup, True Velvet middle pickup and Tone Zone bridge pickup.

What modifications have been made to this guitar?

The original pickguard and truss rod cover have been replaced with matching metallic blue versions to complement the Cobalt Blue Metallic finish.

Does the modification affect performance?

No. These are cosmetic upgrades and do not affect the guitar's playability, tone or functionality.

Is the Edge tremolo better than a Floyd Rose?

Many players consider the original Edge tremolo among the finest double-locking tremolo systems ever produced due to its smooth feel and tuning stability.

What styles is this guitar best suited for?

Rock, metal, progressive music, fusion, instrumental guitar and technical lead playing.

Can I try it in-store?

Yes. Contact Fair Deal Music to check current showroom availability.